Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026  ·  Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard Nov 2025
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine (Penn State) — Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements
Public Accredited · Middle States Commission on Higher Education Media, Pennsylvania 95.3% Acceptance Rate

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine (Penn State) Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Admission Requirements

📍 Media, Pennsylvania 19063-5522 🏛️ Main Campus 🌐 https://www.brandywine.psu.edu/

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine — Admission Snapshot 2026

A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application

95.3%Acceptance Rate
1211Avg SAT
24Avg ACT
$30,201Annual Cost
$63,435Grad Salary
34.8%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
95.3%
Avg SAT
1211
Avg ACT
24
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
SAT Middle 50%
1110–1340
ACT Middle 50%
18–29
Avg Net Price
$22,518
Need-Based Aid
34.8% receive Pell

Penn State Brandywine, established in 1967, is a Commonwealth Campus located on 112 acres in suburban Philadelphia. The campus offers the first two years of all Penn State majors plus 4 bachelor's degrees that can be completed locally. Brandywine features modern facilities including the Main Building and the Vairo Library, maintaining a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The campus's '2+2' program provides a pathway to Penn State's University Park or other campuses.

Brandywine's location provides internship opportunities with Philadelphia-area corporations and healthcare systems. The campus's Continuing Education department offers professional development programs for working adults. Brandywine's partnership with Delaware County Community College facilitates transfer pathways, while its STEM outreach programs serve local schools. The campus hosts cultural events including the annual Penn State Brandywine Arts and Lecture Series.

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine Acceptance Rate

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine (Penn State) maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 95.3%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.

Admissions Guidelines

  • Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
  • Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.

Selectivity at a Glance

Inclusive
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine Selectivity Meter
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 95.3% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)

Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.

Check Your Admission Chances at Penn State

Admission Chance Predictor

Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine's verified institutional data

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Calculating Profile...

Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.

Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00

⚠️ Note: Predicting based on regional averages as this institution does not publicly report full score datasets.

Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine (Penn State) Test Requirements

In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.

Can I Get Into Penn State Without SAT or ACT?

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine Average SAT Score: 1211

The average SAT score of the admitted students at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine is 1211 on the 1600 SAT scale.

SAT Competitiveness

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1211 — Slightly Competitive

This score makes it slightly Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do well to score 1211 on the SAT.

SAT Math
610
SAT Reading
615
Composite
1211
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1340 SAT or 29 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.

If your score is below 1110, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Penn State. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.

SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections

SAT score percentiles for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
SAT Math610540680
SAT Reading615570660
SAT Composite121111101340

It means that if you have scored less than 1110 then you are below most of the admitted students at Penn State and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1340 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.

View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1200

Can I get into Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine (Penn State) with a 1350 SAT?

With a 1350 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine (Penn State) are good but the admission staff at Penn State tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine (Penn State) ACT Requirements

The average ACT Score at Penn State is 24.

ACT Competitiveness

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine ACT Competitiveness
ACT 24 — Slightly Competitive

This score makes Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine slightly Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 24 on the ACT.

ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections

ACT score percentiles for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
ACT Math221925
ACT English241731
ACT Composite241829

Can I get into Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine with a 29 ACT?

A 29 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.

Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.

One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.

Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 29 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.

View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 24

Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for Penn State

Inclusive Strategy: Success & Transfer

Penn State provides an open gateway to higher education. Success here is about utilizing resources and planning your long-term academic or career trajectory.

Meet Eligibility Floors

Ensure you have your high school diploma or GED ready. Open admission means you are in as long as you meet the basic administrative requirements.

Placement Preparation

Focus on the ACCUPLACER or internal placement tests. Performing well here allows you to jump directly into credit-bearing Math and English.

Transfer Path Planning

If you intend to move to a more selective school later, maintain a 3.5+ GPA here to make yourself a highly competitive transfer candidate.

Career Certification

Identify specific certificate programs or internships offered by Penn State that connect directly to the local job market.

Note: While acceptance is guaranteed, space in specific high-demand programs (like Nursing or Tech) may still be competitive.

Penn State Profile

Full Name
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine (Penn State)
City
Media
State
Pennsylvania
ZIP Code
19063-5522
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)

Is a Penn State Degree Worth It?

Getting into Penn State can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. Penn State offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.

Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at Penn State is $63,400 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.15%.

How much does a degree from Penn State Cost?

The average annual cost of the degree at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine is $30,201. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine is $22,518.

34.8% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 51.9 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Penn State and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.

At Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Penn State as your choice in the form.

How much does a Penn State Graduate earn?

The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $63,435. An average Penn State graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).

The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.

$30,201Annual Cost
$22,518Net Price
34.8%Pell Grant
51.9%Federal Loan
$63,435Grad Salary (10yr)

Compare Similar Colleges

Less Competitive

Less Competitive Schools

These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Birmingham-Southern College Birmingham, AL 1197 24
University of Arkansas Fayetteville, AR 1174 25
Harding University Searcy, AR 1187 25
Dominican University of California San Rafael, CA 1194 26
Eastern Connecticut State University Willimantic, CT 1200 NA
University of New Haven West Haven, CT 1190 NA
Nova Southeastern University Fort Lauderdale, FL 1182 25
Savannah College of Art and Design Savannah, GA 1178 25
Spelman College Atlanta, GA 1184 24
Hawaii Pacific University Honolulu, HI 1180 25
Same Competitive

Equally Competitive Schools

These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Mobile Mobile, AL 1220 24
Samford University Birmingham, AL 1203 26
Ouachita Baptist University Arkadelphia, AR 1212 25
University of Hartford West Hartford, CT 1207 29
Quinnipiac University Hamden, CT 1212 27
More Competitive

More Competitive Schools

These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL 1251 26
The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL 1287 28
University of Arizona Tucson, AZ 1261 26
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott Prescott, AZ 1256 27
Biola University La Mirada, CA 1258 27

Degree Programs at Penn State

Bachelor Degree Programs

Associate Degree Programs

UG Certificate or Diploma Programs

Full list of all degree programs offered by Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine →

Frequently Asked Questions About Penn State Admissions

Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $63,435 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.

The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $30,201 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.

34.8% of students receive a Pell Grant at this institution. Your chances of need-based aid are moderate and depend primarily on your household income. Filing FAFSA early significantly improves your chances of receiving the maximum available grant amount.

The acceptance rate of Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine is 95.3% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.

Admission to Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1211 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1110–1340.

Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.

To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.

Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026

SK

Sohaib Ahmad Khan

Sohaib Ahmad Khan is a leading career counselor and admission guidance expert who has guided over 50,000 students worldwide. He is the author of four books and developer of widely used career counseling and aptitude assessment systems. .

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